Vancouver Island, known for its stunning landscapes and innovative spirit, is seeing significant investments to boost its regional economy. PacifiCan, a Canadian government agency dedicated to supporting economic development in the Pacific region, has announced a $3.5 million funding allocation for eight organizations on the island. This investment aims to drive innovation, attract visitors, and solidify Vancouver Island’s leadership in fields like ocean technology and Indigenous tourism.
The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for PacifiCan, highlighted the importance of this funding during a visit to Open Ocean Robotics, a marine robotic vehicle company receiving $800,000. Open Ocean Robotics specializes in Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs), solar-powered autonomous boats that collect real-time ocean data. This investment will enable the company to scale up production of its USVs, making ocean monitoring safer, more efficient, and cost-effective. The funding will also support Open Ocean Robotics in expanding operations, entering new markets, creating jobs, and further establishing Vancouver Island as a leader in marine solutions and environmental stewardship.
The funding for Open Ocean Robotics is part of PacifiCan’s Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program. Other recipients of this program include Fluorescent Design, Industrial Plankton, and Namgis Business Development Corporation, receiving a combined $1.7 million.
Additionally, nearly $1 million has been allocated through PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program to support four local organizations. These projects, ranging from sports hubs to Indigenous arts and cultural experiences, will help elevate Vancouver Island’s tourism sector and contribute to the region’s long-term economic prosperity.
The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, emphasized the importance of Vancouver Island’s unique offerings. “Vancouver Island has what the world wants, including cutting-edge technology and breathtaking tourism experiences,” she stated. “Today’s announcement marks a step forward in positioning Vancouver Island as a central hub for innovation and as a leader in ocean technology.”
Dr. Fritz Stahr, Chief Technology Officer of Open Ocean Robotics, expressed gratitude for the support from PacifiCan. “We’re honored and pleased to be part of PacifiCan’s scale-up program, and to host the Minister’s announcement of more Vancouver Island investments today,” he said. “PacifiCan’s support has allowed us to ramp up production of our award-winning USVs more quickly than we could otherwise, and we look forward to continuing as a leader in ocean robotics in Canada for many years to come.”
With this significant investment, PacifiCan is fostering a vibrant and diverse economy on Vancouver Island, supporting innovative businesses, and attracting visitors from around the world. The focus on ocean technology and Indigenous tourism showcases the region’s unique strengths and positions it for continued growth and prosperity.
